Mrs. Willie Lou Owens was born on August 4, 1941 in Inverness, MS to the union of Ms. Sarah Bush and Mr. Elijah Rodgers. The family later moved to East St. Louis, IL in 1965. She was the matriarch of a loving family and a giving sister, aunt, and grandmother to her host of relatives.

"Lou" as she liked to be called, was a spiritual woman of integrity who confessed her faith in Christ at an early age and remained a loyal servant of His until her passing. In the early 80's she joined Macedonia Baptist Church in East St. Louis, IL under the leadership of Pastor Norman E. Owens,

Lou married Ronald L. Owens on June 29, 1974 and enjoyed nearly 47 years together.

Lou worked for 30 years as a Licensed Practical Nurse at the former St. Mary's Hospital in East St. Louis, IL. As a nurse, she was always health conscious and participated in the Healthy Steppers Group with her friends at the Jackie Joyner Kersee Center and walked several miles weekly with her friend, Della Gray and others. She was dedicated to her health and committed to staying active and exercise, though she always jokingly admitted she was not fond of it.

Lou lived, loved, and laughed abundantly. She held true the words of Acts 20:35 and found happiness in giving of her time, energy and resources. She volunteered with several of her church's ministries, including the Health Unit, Food Pantry, Culinary Unit, and Nursing Home Ministry.

Many Sunday afternoons were shared enjoying Sunday dinner and fellowship with her friends, Scarlett Stith, Auntie Carlotta, and others. Monday nights were also a special time with her family, having dinner and watching the latest movies together.

Lou enjoyed traveling with her family and close friends, shopping, reading, and studying the Scriptures, especially the Book of Psalms.

Lou peacefully departed this life on Sunday, April 4, 2021 after a brief illness. Waiting on her at heaven's gate were her grandson, Dana Juan Adviento; her parents, Sarah Bush and Elijah Rodgers; siblings, Willie James Bush, Wilbur Jean Rogers, Jimmie Bush, Albert Lee Johnson, John Stirgus, and Shelton Stirgus; and her grandmother, Lula Hartaway.

Willie Lou Owens was a light in the lives of all who were privileged to know her. Her presence will be deeply missed. She leaves to cherish her memory: her husband ~Ronald Owens; her children ~ Pastor Gino Austin (Jennifer), Dana Austin (Mia), and Darryl Austin; two grandchildren ~ Charmel (DeAndre) Wilburn and Cameron Austin; two great-grandchildren ~ Isabella Wilburn and DeAndre Wilburn Jr.; sisters ~ Mary Bush-Dodd, Deloris Claiborne, Bennie Lee Williams, and Bobbie Chambers; her brother ~ Obie Stirgus; and a host of other relatives, church family and friends.